It's nice to know when you choose to go whale watching that your experience can make a difference to the survival of these magnificent mammals.
Since Baysail commenced its operations in Ballina in 2002 we have worked closely with the Southern Cross University, The Whale Research Centre and doctorate student Liz Hawkins to collect data for research of whales and dolphins. Through initiatives such as passenger participation in data collection on charters a " win-win" situation occurs for everyone including the whales and dolphins.
Visitors get an insight into how research is collected and increase their understanding of whale migration, communication and community. On each charter the sightings are documented and photographed then submitted to the university research centre. The research is real and valuable providing additional support to the university enabling them to collect data which is otherwise costly to achieve. Data collected is supported by photos contributing the full analysis of whale behaviour.
Baysail have voluntarily participated in providing whale and dolphin sighting data for the Southern Cross University Whale Research Centre during voyages. These data were part of a collaborative program between commercial operators and Southern Cross University.
Dr Liz Hawkins.
Baysail Summary Of Recorded Marine Mammal Sightings
For 2006 & 2007
- 7 species of whales and dolphins observed from 17 voyages (over 153hrs) between 2006 and 2007
- Over 338 individual whales and dolphins recorded
- Humpback whale = 47 individuals (incl. 2 calves)
- Minke whale = 2 (incl. 1 calf)
- Bryde’s whale = 2 (incl. 1 calf)
- Common dolphins = 22 (incl. 1 calf)
- Inshore bottlenose dolphins = 229 (incl. 14 calves)
- Offshore bottlenose dolphins = 14
- All sightings between 7m and 50m
